DESIGN

The following 10 steps lead to the Registration of Designs.

Step 1 Finding out whether any registration already exists
The Designs office can assist you to search whether the design has been
previously registered. If the registration number is known, Form No.-6 should
be filed along with the prescribed fees of Rs. 500. If the representation of the
article or the specimen of the article is filed Form No.-7 along with the
prescribed fees of Rs. 1,000 is required.

Step 2 Preparing a representation of the design
A representation is the exact representation of the article on which the design
has been applied. It should be prepared on white A4 size paper of durable
quality. Do not prepare it on cardboard or mount it on other paper. Indicate
details of the design and applicant clearly.

Step 3 Identifying the class of design
Designs are required to be categorized in separate classes in order to provide
for systematic registration. An internationally accepted classification of
Industrial Designs based upon the function of the article is required. The class
and sub-class should be mentioned in the application. There are 32 classes
and most of the classes are further divided into sub-classes.

Step 4 Providing a statement of novelty
A statement of novelty should be included on the representation of a design as
per the Act in order to specify the claim. This will enable speedier examination
and provide a more specific protection. The claim will protect the overall
visual appearance of the design as described in the representation of drawing.

Step 5 Including a disclaimer
If the ornamental pattern on an article is likely to be confused with a trade
mark, suggests any mechanical action or contains words, letters, numerals,
etc., a disclaimer should be included in the representation.

Step 6 Claiming a priority date
If you have applied for protection of the design in convention countries or
countries which are members of inter-governmental organizations, you can
claim registration of the design citing a priority date in India. This is the
date of filing of the application in any of such countries provided the
application is
made in India within six months

Step 7 Determining the fee to be paid
Applications are to be accompanied by the required fee through cheque or draft
payable at Kolkata or in cash (if filed in Design Office, Kolkata).
Application for the registration of design is Rs 1,000 and for renewal it is Rs.
2,000.

Step 8 Ensuring all enclosures are attached
File an application only after ensuring that all enclosures and fee in the
required numbers are attached. Applications can be filed in either the Design
Office in Kolkata or the branch offices of the Patent office in Delhi, Mumbai or
Chennai.

Step 9 Complying with objections (if any)
If the Design Office seeks additional information or clarifications after
preliminary examination, please ensure that these are provided promptly.
This will help the office to take up your application for early examination.

Step 10 Providing full details
While filing an application make sure that all contact details and addresses are
clearly and legibly filled in. This will enable the office to keep in touch with
you and convey decisions.